Marine-part identification guide
Identify a boat part from a photo
A good photograph can narrow an unknown fitting from thousands of possibilities—but the strongest identification combines images with dimensions, markings, location, and boat context.
Photos that preserve useful evidence
- Photograph the whole part from the front, back, both sides, and mounting face.
- Include a ruler or caliper in the same plane as the measured feature.
- Capture stamped numbers, logos, casting marks, labels, and connector details.
- Show the part installed and a wider view of its location on the boat.
- Photograph mating parts, fastener patterns, broken surfaces, and connections.
Details to include
Record the boat builder, model, approximate year, engine or system, material, finish, thread size, hole spacing, outside dimensions, and what the part does. A partial number can be valuable even when the label is damaged.
How PartWake evaluates a match
PartWake follows visible evidence through catalogs, archived references, supersession records, and manufacturer information. A result may be Verified, Probable, Candidate, or Unresolved. Full Research pays for research and a documented report, not a guaranteed identification or guaranteed compatible replacement.
Related guides
For steering, fuel, propulsion, electrical, structural, and below-waterline applications, have a qualified marine professional independently verify dimensions, ratings, compatibility, application, and safety-critical fitment.